Wednesday, October 29, 2008

I can't believe I haven't blogged since last Thursday....Yikes! I am back for today, but gone again tomorrow for the weekend. So, I thought I would share a run-down of things I've been meaning to blog:

Since the election is next week, I need to finish doing my research on all the issues and candidates...I'll be checking out the Smart Voter Guide for San Diego. Take a look for yourself!Basically the guide gives the details for every candidate and issue on the ballot.

And, if you want to vote on Tuesday, but don't have anyone to watch the kids...then we have the solution for you! SanDiegoMama and Sittercity.com teamed up to offer discounted babysitting on Election Day...read more here!

Cakies is my newest favorite blog to read...what a creative gal, and mama of 2.Check out the great article on SanDiegoMama.com about bringing the outside in...just in time for fall...from scrapbooker and crafter extraordinaire, Emily Falconbridge.

And, I'll be back next week with my last "You Renewed" post and some more fun stuff...especially with the holidays coming. Hopefully our weather will cool down!

Childish Couture Children's BoutiqueFriday, October 31st from 2-4pmWestVillagePlaza162 S. Rancho Santa Fe Rd. B-40 in Encinitas760-230-6000 | www.childishcouture.comAlso, join us for Trick or Treating from 1-4pm at the WestVillageCenter.Start your hunt by bringing your canned food donationto Childish Couture and receive a map of locations to Trick or Treat. Costumes not required. Children up to 12 years must be accompanied by an adult.

As part of the MamaVote initiative, they will offer discounted babysitting on Election Day, November 4, 2008. From October 27 to November 3, all individuals who sign up for a membership at Sittercity.com with the promotional code “MamaVote08” will be eligible for 50 percent off babysitting on Election Day.

SanDiegoMama joined with the League of Women Voters and Sittercity.com to launch MamaVote last year, a non-partisan, education and inspiration-based initiative that encourages mothers to get involved in the political process. By offering discounted, reliable babysitting, these organizations hope to get more women to the polls. Moms who still need to register to vote can visit Vote411.

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Ok. Seriously. I meant to post this last week, but since it was my birthday I took the day off. So, Week 4 turned into two weeks. I'm still loving the "You Renewed" program from Henrys Farmers Market nutritionist, Janet Little. Here are my goals for this week!

Week 5EatEating lean protein is the focus this week. So that means, things like chicken, turkey, black beans and chickpeas. I'll be making some homemade black beans and having some yummy hummus this week. If anyone has a good homemade hummus recipe...I'd love to have it!

MoveThis week the Move section discusses great ways to help your family stay active. Here are is a great list provided in the booklet:

10 Tips to Activate Your Family1. Schedule physical activity throughout the week, even if it’s just walking the dog around theblock or taking the family for a walk on the beach.2. Select different activities for the family each week, such as playing catch or having a gamenight with an active game like charades.3. For each family member post a gold star next to daily activities completed and display it onthe refrigerator -- great motivational tool.4. Be sure to select activities that suit your family’s age and preferences, for example a two-hourmountain hike may be too long for children under 12.5. Enjoy games that make everyone feel successful such as Twister or miniature golf.6. Designate indoor and outdoor play areas where rolling, climbing, jumping and tumblingare allowed.7. Buy toys or equipment that promote physical activity, such as jump ropes and chalk to drawwith on the sidewalk.8. Enroll your family in fitness-oriented activities, such as karate, dance or soccer.9. Limit time spent watching TV programs or playing computer/video games.10. Use physical activity rather than food as a reward. For example, if everyone cleans the house,the family will go in-line skating together.

ThinkThe think section teaches you how to control your portions. I have to admit that while I think about whether my food is healthy or not, I NEVER focus on the amount of food I eat. Serving sizes are always WAY less than I expect. So, this week I plan on taking the time to plan my portions! The You Renewed Booklet gives great visual examples of correct portions.

If you haven't puchased your copy the "You Renewed" booklet from Henrys Farmers Market yet...go get one...its only $1.00!